Most of us, especially in this part of the world to be honest ignore the tiny signs our body gives us. We always treat the symptoms and ignore the cause. The culture of observing regular check ups, visiting a gynecologist or even having one as your personal doctor eluded us.
Okay, so we are going to have a conversation about an organ that particularly differentiates us from our male folks–the Uterus. We will school ourselves a little about it, then talk about the signs it gives us when there is danger.
The uterus is comprised of two main parts: the protruding top called the body of the uterus and the narrow lower part called the cervix. The walls of the uterus contain three layers: the internal coating called the endometrium, the middle muscular layer called the myometrium and the outer layer called the peritoneum.
If you feel any type of discomfort, see your doctor. Be aware of your body and any abnormal pain. Check your underwear for strange secretions. These can be signs something is not right.
The main signs of Danger are the following:
Pains
Pain that comes from cramps is normal to some extent. These cramps are caused as the uterine contracts to expel the menstrual blood. But if you have pain when you’re not on your period or cramps so bad they make you throw up, these are signs you should get some medical attention. This could be endometriosis, which occurs when uterine tissues grow outside of the uterus, or possibly cancer.
Pain or burning during intercourse should also be investigated. You could have genital infections, endometriosis or sexually transmitted diseases.
Secretions
It’s normal to have vaginal discharge, especially for women in their childbearing years. Menopausal women should have less vaginal secretions. Generally, normal secretions are clear, transparent and colorless. Discharge is only a concern if there is strong odor, change in consistency and color, blood, unusual pain and/or a fever. These signs may indicate there is some type of cervical inflammation.
Bleeding
If your period flow dramatically increases or decreases, this is an important warning sign. Similarly, bleeding after intercourse may be cancer. Have a gynecologist check it out.
Infertility
This is a complex matter with thousands of causes, but infertility can be caused by endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, dysfunction in the thyroid or the adrenals or sexually transmitted diseases. You will need a medical exam for a correct diagnosis.
Uterine Hypertrophy
Hypertrophy means the excessive growth or development of an organ. The acceptable size range of a uterus for women is about 2.5 to 9.8 inches. Signs of hypertrophy include the following.
Increased volume of menstrual flow
The presence of clots
Increased urination
Bleeding between periods
Constipation
Feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
The body knows how to express when something is not right. One way or another it sends signals. It is up to us to be attentive. Have preventive examinations regularly, and if there is pain, discomfort, a bad smell or any other abnormality relating to your uterus, see your gynecologist.